Spur speeds into Trotting Stakes contention

Talented North Island trotter Speeding Spur looks set to make a bold South Island debut in the Group 3 2YO Trotting Stakes at Addington on Saturday.

The John and Josh Dickie trained trotter, who downed the smart Yagunnakissmeornot in his last start, trialled up stylishly at Ashburton today, so much so that Josh Dickie reversed his decision to make Millie Sampson his Harnesslink Bet Of The Week.

After leading early, The Pegasus Spur two-year-old made a mid-race break, losing considerable ground before speeding home for fourth place.

“He was getting an easy time in front and simply lost concentration and broke,” explained Dickie. “But he came down pretty quickly and really found the line stylishly,” he added.

“They have been running some very good times down here but I think can match them on the clock,” said Dickie. “He is going to improve with a few more runs under his belt but I really do rate him quite highly,” he concluded

The trial was won by Roydon’s Jewel, who will again be a rival of Speeding Spur’s on Saturday, while the classy Monbet as well as Wanna Play also pose as serious threats.

The latter was unable to be driven out in her last start and could be a very good bet at good value.

Other impressive trialists at Ashburton included Iceobar, who won easily by a length and a half, while Curlimore also caught the eye, dashing through tight quarters late to finish third in the same event. Both two-year-olds look to have strong chances in the fifth event at Addington on Saturday.